See Also Coughs & Cold Water & Internal/External Infections Asthma & Allergies Drinking Water is the Best Cure for Fever Influenza & the Importance of Water

Water and bronchitis and pneumonia

"Ahem."

That's an understatement for those inflicted with bronchitis. This obstructive pulmonary condition, best known for the heavy coughing accompanied my sputum, occurs when the bronchi in the lungs are inflamed. Bronchitis can be acute, or short term as well as chronic, or long-lasting. People who smoke or live in polluted cities are more susceptible to coming down with this ailment.

The more common of the two is acute. Bronchitis is usually from a virus which people can catch from a variety of places, and it can also develop out of the flu and upper respiratory infections. Sometimes it can result from bacteria. (This can come into play in figuring out what medicine to take!) Basically, when the bronchial tubes become inflamed they form mucus. This creates the coughing reflex, which produced the mucus. Usually, bronchitis will last two to three weeks.

The most important thing someone can do to kick the cough is to up the amount of fluids they drink. This will help soothe the throat as well as keep the body hydrated. Also, it is suggested that people with bronchitis refrain from drinking caffeine and alcohol as this will only more rapidly lead to dehydration. Water in other forms can aid as well. Moisture from a vaporizer can help break down mucus. Taking a hot shower or bath can as well. If one is at risk for developing bronchitis, such as having the flu or a respiratory infection, increasing fluid intake can also help.

If one does not treat bronchitis, or does not catch it in time (it is a rapid illness), it can result in pneumonia. This is more serious. Pneumonia still affects the respiratory tract, but it obstructs it even more, making it harder to breathe. Many of the symptoms are the same like fever, chest pain and cough, however coughs do not produce mucus. Usually this sickness is treatable from home, but for those with other diseases, it can be very serious and even deadly. Again, drinking water here is crucial to preventing dehydration. Many may take acetaminophen to reduce fever, but this can also cause dehydration. So, be sure to take it with plenty of water.

Pneumonia is not just the result of another illness. Contaminated water is also said to be a culprit. The Anchorage Daily News reports that 24% of children living in villages with poor water conditions have come down with the flu or pneumonia. This shows that poorer areas must be concentrating on getting water filters, which is far cheaper and much more efficient than waiting for a new city line.

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More related topics: Water & Internal/External Infections Asthma & Allergies Drinking Water is the Best Cure for Fever Influenza & the Importance of Water